Rattling Toward the Edge: Chasing Colorado’s Crystal Mill

by Mark Bradshaw

A Colorado Icon

Few places capture the rugged beauty and wild spirit of Colorado like Crystal Mill. Perched precariously on a rocky outcropping above the rushing Crystal River, this 19th-century wooden powerhouse has become one of the most photographed sites in the state. Framed by golden aspens and the Elk Mountains rising behind it, the mill seems frozen in time—an unforgettable reminder of the state’s mining past and natural splendor.

Getting There Is Half the Adventure

Reaching Crystal Mill isn’t easy—and that’s part of its charm. The mill sits about six miles east of the tiny mountain town of Marble, just before the ghost town of Crystal. The route is accessible only in summer and early fall, when snow and mud have retreated enough to make the rough, one-lane 4x4 road passable.

We rented an ATV for the journey, and it was quite the adventure. The trail can also be tackled by foot, mountain bike, horseback, or via a guided jeep tour. But however you go, be prepared for a slow, bumpy, heart-pounding ride through some of the most dramatic terrain in Colorado.

The Road Less Traveled

Leaving Marble, the route passes Beaver Lake—a serene spot where we later spent a quiet afternoon fishing. From there, the pavement ends and the real adventure begins. The dirt road narrows and grows rockier with every turn. Lizard Lake offers a short breather before the “fun” truly starts.

For much of the journey, the road hugs the Crystal River, sometimes high above a steep drop. The shell of a long-abandoned vehicle lies wrecked at the bottom, a not-so-subtle reminder to keep your eyes on the road. Meeting an oncoming vehicle can be a tense game of negotiation—someone has to back up to one of the few turnouts to let the other pass.

The Reward at the End

Just when you’re wondering if the effort is worth it, the trees part and there it is: the Crystal Mill, standing proudly against the mountain backdrop. As a photographer, I couldn’t resist finding the perfect angle. The best views come from down by the river—accessed through private property where visitors pay a modest $10 fee. Some complain, but I see it differently. Ten dollars for one of the most breathtaking photo opportunities in Colorado seems like a fair trade—and a nod to the spirit of enterprise that built places like this in the first place.

A Living Relic

Crystal Mill isn’t just a relic—it’s a reminder of how beauty and history intertwine in the high country. Whether you come for the photos, the thrill of the journey, or simply to stand in awe of Colorado’s wild landscapes, this hidden gem rewards every bump in the road.

Mark Bradshaw is a former TV news anchor who has transitioned into a storyteller and photographer. Every year, he and his wife, Michelle, embark on journeys to explore America's wild landscapes and capture the unforgettable experiences they encounter. They also frequently podcast about their adventures.